Abstract

Nanotechnology, i.e. the production based on different nano-sized particles, is a rapidly increasing area of industry providing new and innovative solutions being introduced into many industrial sectors. In near future, it will have a major impact on the everyday life of people in the industrialized countries and therefore, there are increasing demands by society for reliable and understandable information on the possible health effects of engineered nanoparticles. It is essential that reliable information should be gathered before entering with widespread use of nanoparticles to avoid potential health problems. This research project will focus on occupational exposure to nanoparticles and their health effects. One goal of the research is to characterize the levels of exposure to specific engineered nanoparticles. Exposure levels will be evaluated both under laboratory conditions and during the manufacture of the particles. The particles will be characterized with respect to their morphology and particle-size distribution, surface activity, and potential for agglomerate formation. Health effects to be studied include genotoxicity and pulmonary inflammatory responses as well as the effects of nanoparticles on the vasculature.